Yaskawa Electric, through its subsidiary Yaskawa America, has acquired Variadores, a long-standing partner in Colombia.
The acquisition formalizes a relationship between the two companies that dates back to 1991, during which Variadores has distributed Yaskawa drive technologies across a range of industrial sectors.
Strengthening presence in Latin America
Variadores, headquartered in Bogotá with additional operations in Medellín, Cali, and Barranquilla, will continue to operate with its existing management team and workforce following the acquisition.
The company has established a strong position in Colombia’s variable speed drive market, supplying low- and medium-voltage drive systems across industrial, municipal, and commercial applications, including oil and gas.
Founded in 1987, Variadores employs 148 staff and provides services including system design, integration, monitoring, and maintenance.
From long-term partner to integrated business
Yaskawa says the acquisition reflects the close alignment between the two companies’ operating models and market approach.
Mike Knapek, president and CEO of Yaskawa America, says: “I have been directly involved with this partnership for the last 25 years of this 35-year partnership. Rarely have we had a partner that was more lockstep with our customer-centric philosophy of providing the highest quality solutions backed with the very best automation knowledge and customer service.
“For many years, it has been like we were already one company, and now we are formalizing that attitude and spirit into a legal business entity with the Yaskawa name.”
Regional growth strategy
The acquisition is expected to support Yaskawa’s expansion in Latin America, with Colombia seen as a strategic market for industrial growth.
David Giraldo, managing director of Variadores, says: “Colombia stands out as a dynamic emerging market with strong industrial potential and regional connectivity. Together with Yaskawa, we see the opportunity to further strengthen Colombia’s role as a key platform for growth across Latin America.”
Broader automation portfolio
Founded in 1915, Yaskawa Electric Corporation operates globally across drives, motion control, and robotics, and also has a presence in the photovoltaic inverter market.
The integration of Variadores is expected to strengthen Yaskawa’s regional capabilities in drive systems and industrial automation services.
